Hometown Christmas

AppleFest is a wonderful community tradition that brings people together across the seasons. While best known for our large fall festival and parade, AppleFest also proudly hosts the annual Christmas parade. This festive event features Santa and his elves, followed by a reading of the Christmas story and refreshments for families and friends. The popular Elf Contest is held during the Christmas season and serves as an AppleFest fundraiser, helping support the next years Fun Zone.

In 2025, AppleFest launched a new annual tradition with the first-ever Christmas Tree Lighting on the square. Partnering with the Bank of Billings, AppleFest expanded the holiday fun alongside their Santa and His Deere evening. Guests enjoyed games, hot chocolate, and writing letters to Santa, all while the downtown square and gazebo were beautifully decorated. A generously donated Christmas tree stood at the center, glowing throughout December and filling the square with Christmas magic.

AppleFest is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and the joy of coming together.